The approach is to fill positions in a star shape with values from a set so that the sum of each line is equal to the sum of every other line. There are four values in each of five lines. Related problems based on other shapes are noted. (MP)

Describes how mathematical puzzles and riddles can be implemented in the classroom to engage students in rich mathematical explorations and logical reasoning. (YDS)

The effectiveness of specfic dimensions of adult mediation on preschoolers' self-regulation of a model-consultation strategy was evaluated in a microcomputer-based problem-solving task. Two trained tutors taught 61 children who were pretested and randomly assigned to one of four treatments devised to test two factors of mediation: access and…

This paper reports a study of cerebral dominance in 42 preschool and kindergarten children. In order to tap left hemisphere functioning, a story of approximately 650 words and 77 specific plot details was composed. Children listened to the 7 minute story and were asked to repeat it. Responses were taped. Tangram pieces were used to assess right…

The need to promote mathematical creativity and suggestions for developing it are discussed in this document. The largest portion of this document consists of a collection of problem sheets, arranged according to 26 content areas. Puzzles, activities, and a variety of problems are included, with an answer key. An annotated bibliography of selected…

The material in this reprint, with minor editorial changes, is from the chapter "Doing the Impossible" in MONKEY BUSINESS by Irving Adler. This 25-page booklet contains brief accounts of historical attempts to prove impossible problems in mathematics. The mathematical recreations in this booklet of geometric constructions include the trisection…

Describes a laboratory exercise in which a writer verbally directs a reader to assemble a seven-piece puzzle. Discusses how the exercise provides a test of communicative effectiveness, an illustration of the communication process, and an opportunity to examine assumptions that writers often make. (ARH)

Seventy fifth-grade students in Australia were observed as each solved a jigsaw puzzle. Boys obtained higher scores on a measure of cognitive style and took less time to complete the jigsaw task; the two measures were significantly correlated. Uses of tangrams are also discussed. (MNS)

The logical mysteries in this book are designed to develop critical thinking and deductive reasoning skills, motivate children to read carefully, and develop memory skills. The mystery solutions are explained at the end of the book. The first nine mysteries are intended for third grade students to work on with their teacher or parents. The second…

Brief articles on a linguistic approach to learning mathematics vocabulary, designing cross-figure puzzles, an activity with probability, and a problem with an erroneous solution are included in this section. (MNS)

Mathematical activities suitable for reproduction as worksheets are suggested. These activities are adaptations of the classic tower puzzle and are intended to help students discover patterns, make generalizations, and use the strategy of solving simpler problems in order to solve a more difficult one. (MK)

A theory is proposed of the processes which enable a subject to learn while solving a problem. One subject's protocol--including 224 steps and taking 90 minutes--is described. Adequacy of the mechanisms is guaranteed by a computer simulation of the processes in an adaptive production system. (Author/GDC)

Recommends the use of puzzles to help elementary school children sharpen their problem solving skills. Describes the use of a Puzzle Day to promote problem solving. (DDR)

This study was designed to test preschoolers' thinking about strategies and the relationship between strategy selection and performance through the use of computer-presented puzzle tasks. A total of 61 children between the ages of 3 and 5 years were observed to see whether they used trial and error, model consultation, or a mixed strategy to solve…

In two studies, preschool children's social interactions while working on problem-solving tasks were investigated. In the first study, 27 preschool children were observed over a period of 9 weeks while working on learning games at a computer. Sharing, verbal and nonverbal instruction, and initiation of interaction were recorded. A total of 63…